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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice.
I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared.
Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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23 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael Watters and his team are highly skilled and experienced in navigating the complexities of divorce. Not only did he skillfully navigate the legal system and advocate for my financial needs, he understood the importance of equalizing finances between households so that I can really show up for my children. He clearly has seen it all before, understands dysfunctional family dynamics and anticipated what my family needed when I was not able to advocate for myself. Michael got a court order to begin paying child support and alimony when my ex had stopped; he called for a financial deposition to reveal the money that my ex had been trying to hide and could not be revealed in a simple tax return, he got my ex to pay money to me for the house that we had acquired while we were married and then had pressurized me into getting my name off of the title as I was leaving the house before we were legally separated, and he was able to get most all of my legal fees to be paid by my ex as he had the ability to do so. I am so grateful for Michael and his team's work on my behalf. Without Michael's help I still would have been an unsupported single mom stressed and not being able to fully show up for my kids who are really the ones who suffer most in these dynamics.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I have had the pleasure of seeing Mike in action as a discovery referee, legal malpractice expert, and attorney. He is a seasoned litigator and expert who knows what he's doing and easily earns the respect of those who experience his work. The work product from his office is excellent. His integrity is unmatched. Importantly, Mike is an even better human being, and his care is evident at all phases. Shout out to George and Tim from his office who are also incredible to work with.
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06 Jun, 2023 by Chris
Mr. Waters is not only an exceptionally knowledgable Divorce Lawyer but a highly experienced litigator which is critical should your divorce reach the courts. I believe he represented my interests very well and I had full confidence that he would have won my case had we ended up going to court. However (against his advice) I decided to settle just to be done with the process. I felt he was fair in his billing and I would hire him again if I needed his services.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jeff white
I chose Jeanne Browne to help my fiancée and I with our prenuptial agreement! She gave great advice, had quick turnarounds and was very detail oriented (even noticing items another attorney missed). I highly recommend Jeanne Browne and her office staff!
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30 May, 2024 by Alejandra ochoa alejandra ochoa
Jeanee and Francisco were very comprehensive with my situation. Thank you so much for your help
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28 Sep, 2022 by Rubi ajcalon yaxon
Jeanne is a wonderful person. Very easy to talk to it was like I knew her for years even though she wasn’t able to help in my case she did how ever give me some great advice and referrals. This woman will leave you with a feeling of gratitude and a knowing that there are still people out in the world that do care.
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27 Jan, 2024 by Charan preet
East or west Andrew Martinez respect Sir and all staff very Nice and understanding Each and every thing … I really appreciate and Thanksfull
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22 Sep, 2022 by Foundation 707
Best criminal defense attorney in the bay area . Good friend as well .
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15 Jul, 2022 by Crystal turner
Well mannered
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05 Oct, 2024 by Ryan n (neerphoria)
Thomas is a genuinely kind person. He cares about helping you and you can feel it in his voice.
I had at least 30 questions when I got on the phone with him. He helped me stop, identify the important issues, and feel prepared.
Highly recommend his services.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Karen brown
I spoke with Mr. Kelly about an odd situation. He was very attentive to what I needed and was quite upfront and honest with me. I would recommend him highly!
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07 Jun, 2024 by Al coate
Top notch professional, with sound advice and excellent service. I highly recommend Thomas Kelly.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Caitie c
09 May, 2024 by Nicholas beloberk
Compassionate and knowledgeable staff. Excellent client communication and reasonable pricing for quality legal services. Thanks for all you do!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Jess ann
I highly recommend Jacob Faircloth! He helped with our chapter 7 bankruptcy and made the entire process much smoother with his outstanding knowledge, patience, and empathy. He was always eager to help answer any questions and explained things clearly to us. Just an amazing attorney!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jeff white
I chose Jeanne Browne to help my fiancée and I with our prenuptial agreement! She gave great advice, had quick turnarounds and was very detail oriented (even noticing items another attorney missed). I highly recommend Jeanne Browne and her office staff!
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30 May, 2024 by Alejandra ochoa alejandra ochoa
Jeanee and Francisco were very comprehensive with my situation. Thank you so much for your help
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28 Sep, 2022 by Rubi ajcalon yaxon
Jeanne is a wonderful person. Very easy to talk to it was like I knew her for years even though she wasn’t able to help in my case she did how ever give me some great advice and referrals. This woman will leave you with a feeling of gratitude and a knowing that there are still people out in the world that do care.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Omar suarez
08 Jul, 2024 by Crystal turner
Well mannered
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08 Jul, 2024 by Big r72
They are sensitive to Medical issues with clients and have an empathetic understanding. Very good listeners
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06 Oct, 2023 by Cheresse hadley
Im 28 years old and this man is a big reason why my grandma raised me.
He really cares so much about who he’s helping, he doesn’t judge a book by its cover! He is real family man who understands the value of what a child needs when it comes to a good loving home and family.
Him and his wife are amazing.
Wonderful family.
Im grateful for this man and what’s he’s done for my grandma.
Thank you Rudy!
-The Hadley’s.
Gloria, & Cheresse.
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03 Oct, 2012 by Alexandra
My divorce case was very complicated. Since I am a foreigner I felt hopeless and frustrated without much knowledge of laws and my rights in USA. Then I got very lucky - I was recommended to contact Rudy Bonilla. Rudy was AMAZING from first consultation to the end of the whole process. He won the case. He is extremely knowledgeable, professional, competent, helpful, and respectful. Even my ex-husband admitted he should've hired Rudy! I highly recommend Rudy Bonilla
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14 Sep, 2011 by Debbie
After sifting through most of the second rate attorneys in town I finally came up with Rudy Bonilla. Rudy knows what he's doing and has moral fiber that is often lacking in this profession. I feel like he represented ME and was more concerned about the outcome of my case than soaking me for all I was worth. Thank you Rudy Bonilla!
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06 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Angelle was a great help to me during my divorce! She was knowledgeable, grounded, responsive, exceptionally organized and compassionate. Her willingness to offer candid yet solid advice was invaluable to me during this process. I would highly recommend Angelle!
Very satisfied in Sonoma
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05 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Angelle is determined, knowledgeable, responsive, and easy to work with. However, she was tough as nails when battling for us. From a complex criminal matter, to a civil suit, she defended us with diligence, determination, compassion, and heart. I would not hesitate to recommend or utilize her services again, should the need ever arise. She is YOUR best advocate... I know she was ours..
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14 Apr, 2014 by Christine
Angelle is wonderful to work with! She helped my fiancé and I write our living wills and was very professional, reliable, responsive and was patiently able to work with us to figure out exactly what we wanted to do. This was the first time we had both written our living wills so there was a learning curve and we had many questions. Angelle guided us through the complex legal process with ease and grace and really helped us narrow down what we wanted to do. I will hire her for all future legal services. Very highly recommend!!!!!
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23 Jul, 2019 by Steven
Wallace Francis is an exceptional attorney and I would recommend him to anyone who has an ethical case.
Like most litigants, he is absolutely committed to his clients' financial interests. Yet he also recognizes what matters outside of money. He offers solutions that consider all factors. An example would be if a client had to pick two options, one that would likely yield $10,000 and another would gain $6,000. While one might think the obvious answer is $10,000, Mr. Francis might offer caution with what the emotional and timing costs would be to get the additional $4,000.
In my particular case, he was amazingly helpful. During a very dark time of my divorce, he was the only attorney who willing to meet with me on a Saturday. He listened to my situation without judgment and offered a small amount of compassion along with outlining a variety of legal options I had.
Ultimately I think Mr. Francis passionately cares to help people who are against malicious litigators, narcissistic people, or any sort of bully in the legal system.
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20 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Francis helped me get through a very contentious divorce that included property and custody disputes. He was very knowledgeable and thorough. Although the other side tried to pull tricks, he was not fooled by their nonsense. He was also compassionate and caring and listened carefully to what I had to say.
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01 Sep, 2023 by Maureen butler
Ms. Sowers has been the legal counsel for many of the foster infants in my care. She is professional, open and most of all passionate about her role. She cares deeply for the children she represents and her passion is evident. Whenever she is assigned a child in my care, I rest easy knowing that the child's best interest will be heard in court.
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07 May, 2018 by Marnie (cummins) giacoletti
Words along can not express what this Lawyer means to me and my family. My 2 boys were in the states care and Madaliene was their lawyer ~ she was amazing ! very caring and a super professional lawyer ...its been years 20 years since I have see her but I think of her often My family is doing well - my boys are grown - I have 1 grandson ... I would love to touch base and catch her up on our lives
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10 Sep, 2021 by Stacey swanson
Honest and caring people.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Doug did an outstanding job representing our interests. As he has many years of business experience himself he understood our complex issues both from a business and legal perspective. He expertly guided us through a challenging business dispute and we were very pleased with the outcome. Unlike an attorney we had previously worked with, he was very responsive and a true pleasure to work with. I highly recommend him to any business owner.
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19 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
If you are looking for a caring, consistent, dependable attorney, this is the one!
He is experienced, understanding, an excellent communicater and makes himself available when you need him. I highly recommend William Bleecker
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02 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Michele took the time to meet with me when others wouldn't. She was very informative and eager/willing to help.
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28 Oct, 2017 by Ivan leister
04 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
After hiring Marla Keenan for my child custody case, she has continued to offer me great service and has been very knowledgable with guiding me in the right direction. Although I know she has several clients, she is well versed in my case and has remembered small details over the last several years which has been comforting and offered piece of mind as well as trust. She has made a difficult situation much easier and I will continue to call upon her for any Family Law services in the future.
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03 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
Maile is a very compassionate person. She took the time to listen to my tearful concerns and to get to know our family. I whole heartedly trusted Maile and valued her opinion from the start. I would definitely recommend Maile to other families.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Emily
Mr. Bartolotta got me the best possible results in my case, and I'm 100% ecstatic! It was a hard fight but he was tough and didn't back down, even though the other lawyer was "famous and expensive" LOL.
I had talked to another two lawyers first, and they both seemed uncertain and not very committed to their clients, or to anything except getting me to give them a big retainer LOL. My mom was going to pay for it, because she buys the most expensive everything thinking it's the best, but then I met with Mr. Bartolotta and knew he was the best lawyer for me to hire regardless of anything else.
I'm glad I chose him. Everything turned out better than I hoped for, and although any court case is stressful, he was really good at making me feel at ease and keeping me informed. Thank you Mr. Bartolotta, you did a great job!
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24 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Richard Nelson has served as counsel regarding current contracts and leases I have requested his legal advice and expertise on. As a positive, Richard does not emulate the typical attorney profile. He is genuine and trustworthy, complimented by being one of the most skilled, analytical, and brilliant attorneys I have ever worked with. He worked passionately to remove the barriers to success in negotiating my contract, working promptly to help me clarify my position. He was extremely communicative throughout the process. He stood true to his focus and remained goal oriented thoughout my negotiations, upholding our position with fervor and clarifying points for further discussion in my best interest. If you are in search of an attorney who will keep the best interest of his clients as a first priority, I would highly recommend Richard Nelson.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Sharon ban
Lorilee and her staff are exceptional. They made the estate planning process stress-free and seamless. I highly recommend Lorilee for estate planning.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Daniel d.
Great experience all around. Started process of getting work permit and GC for out-of-status spouse at Santa Rosa office in August 2023. After giving a summary of our situation, Arash laid out a timeline of roughly 2 years of what we needed to do as far as documents, medical exams, etc. Our case was then handed to the Sacramento office where we worked with Sumit for the remainder (mostly online with email correspondence, which was convenient). Work permit was acquired in April, and GC acquired the following August (even with having a notice to submit more docs due to insufficient evidence). Expectations exceeded and couldn't be happier with the outcome.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Lia le
I discovered Yasrebi Law Firm through a Google search. My case was somewhat complex, as I was a VAWA applicant seeking naturalization. From start to finish, the process was smooth and efficient. His team filed my case promptly, and just three months later, I received my interview appointment. Yasrebi accompanied me to the appointment and provided valuable insights on what to expect during the interview. On a personal level, Yasrebi is approachable and personable; from a professional standpoint, he is direct and punctual. I highly recommend this law firm to anyone in need of legal assistance.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sherry xu
Michael has been an incredible help with our child's education rights. His dedication and compassion have been invaluable. He went the extra mile by connecting us with a special education expert. We are grateful for his support and highly recommend his services.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Anthony vasquez
08 Jul, 2024 by Luana antunes
18 Mar, 2024 by Jessica lindsey
Alisha and team were amazing. Quick to respond to any questions I had and also persistent obtaining info required from the other party involved. Great experience.
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14 Mar, 2024 by Matt davis
Wine Country Law were very professional and came well prepared. Lindsay was a first class lawyer.
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10 Feb, 2024 by Kathryn klein
I felt as though they truly cared about me. They always returned my messages promptly and worked hard on my behalf.
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11 Sep, 2024 by Faith apple
Charles is very professional, stayed in contact during my case, and diligent. He's also very personable and easy to talk to. He was able to get my case dismissed! I would highly recommend him to anyone that is in need of an attorney to fight for them.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Romy limenes
Do not retain Mr.Quinnan if you are in need of an actual advocate. He is sadly a cog in the broken machine. When things get tough he won’t be there for you. He is a man’s man in every sense of the word and I’m sorry that I made the mistake in trusting my life to him and his partner Peter Kuykendall. In my most crucial moment they deserted me and blamed it on the “fine print.” I guess speaking the truth was simply too much for these boys to handle. not a huge surprise there. Buyer beware.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Kellie rochioli
When my husband was hit by a car driving his motorcycle, I called the Law Offices of Kevin McConnell. Two hours later he was sitting in my living room helping us arrange for medical treatment, explaining the insurance claim process, and how he could help. Over the next few weeks Kevin responded to every email or phone call immediately and even helped us get his Harley from the tow yard. He is extremely personable and the information he provides is clear and understandable. We recommend Kevin McConnell as an attorney in the event you are ever in an accident.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Letii p
I had a bad experience with zack hired him for a case which he made it worse then it already was then he said to give him a call to talk things out and see what he was able to do about it because he knew his self and after they make it worse they stop answering your calls it’s been over four months he never called back the whole team who works with him is very unprofessional he just takes your money and doesn’t help out and makes things worse I definitely do not recommend Zack !
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24 Sep, 2024 by Spanish woman
21 Sep, 2024 by Ryan grey
Chris Vivian and his team were Amazing , I had a very complex child custody and divorce case there attention to detail and their professionalism is truly outstanding ,he was able to get me the child custody schedule that I deserved and wanted , I highly recommend everyone to use Vivian & Agil law thank you Chris, Kathy and Kayla for all the help .
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27 Sep, 2024 by Letii p
I had a bad experience with zack hired him for a case which he made it worse then it already was then he said to give him a call to talk things out and see what he was able to do about it because he knew his self and after they make it worse they stop answering your calls it’s been over four months he never called back the whole team who works with him is very unprofessional he just takes your money and doesn’t help out and makes things worse I definitely do not recommend Zack !
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24 Sep, 2024 by Spanish woman
21 Sep, 2024 by Ryan grey
Chris Vivian and his team were Amazing , I had a very complex child custody and divorce case there attention to detail and their professionalism is truly outstanding ,he was able to get me the child custody schedule that I deserved and wanted , I highly recommend everyone to use Vivian & Agil law thank you Chris, Kathy and Kayla for all the help .
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27 Sep, 2024 by Letii p
I had a bad experience with zack hired him for a case which he made it worse then it already was then he said to give him a call to talk things out and see what he was able to do about it because he knew his self and after they make it worse they stop answering your calls it’s been over four months he never called back the whole team who works with him is very unprofessional he just takes your money and doesn’t help out and makes things worse I definitely do not recommend Zack !
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24 Sep, 2024 by Spanish woman
21 Sep, 2024 by Ryan grey
Chris Vivian and his team were Amazing , I had a very complex child custody and divorce case there attention to detail and their professionalism is truly outstanding ,he was able to get me the child custody schedule that I deserved and wanted , I highly recommend everyone to use Vivian & Agil law thank you Chris, Kathy and Kayla for all the help .
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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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16 Oct, 2024 by Evan weise
He is an extraordinary lawyer. I know three other people who have used his services, and we are all amazed in his performance and professionalism inside and outside the courtroom. He goes above and beyond, making sure you reach the most favorable and fair deal/ verdict possible with the prosecutor.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Gerardo amador
Evan Zelig was very supportive, clear, and understanding throughout the whole process of my legal case. Evan answered all my questions in clear detail and made sure I completely understood the following steps. Evan was very realistic when it came to certain legal outcomes (considering the circumstances), but reassured that he would do his absolute best in achieving the outcomes we both set in mind. For the record, Evan was able to achieve the best and favorable outcome for my situation. I am very happy that I hired Evan Zelig to represent me in my legal case and could have not asked for a better representation on my behalf. I would highly recommend Evan Ziegler for legal representation.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Esme valencia
I hired Evan Zelig for a friend and I am so happy I did. Evan is an amazing attorney I will highly reccomend him! From start to finish he worked hard to get my friend the best outcome even though it was not easy because he had gotten 3 DUI within a one year period. When we met Evan he was very kind and was honest about what he thought could happen. Once he took the cases he always kept us in the loop of what was going on thru the entire process with the courts. He always communicated and was fast to return our calls when he was unavailable. When we looked online to find someone to help many choices came up but we decided to go with him and are so happy we did. Thank you so much for all your hard work Evan we will for ever be grateful! If you need an attorney do not hesitate call Evan Zelig!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
